Wednesday, January 3, 2007

CHOCOLATE WALNUT FUDGE

"Fudge" brings me back to childhood and England, because I remember that it was always a type of confection that I loved to eat when on holidays in this beautiful country. It is also very much linked to the yummy world ofThorntons, the famous chocolate manufacturer (see info). I can still remember that awesome sweet smell which perfumed the whole town of Belper, Derbyshire. It was so surreal...According to popular lore, "Fudge" is supposed to have originated from the United States more than 100 years ago, although it's origin is still disputed. It is also well spread in England as you can find it everywhere. It could be compared to "Toffee" as they both hold similarities when it comes to their creaminess, softness and sweetness. The main difference resides in the fact that, unlike "Toffee" which has a glossy surface and is caramely and chewy (it can be hard, though), "Fudge" has a slightly, granular, gritty and grainy texture with a mat surface. It can be elaborated with many different ingredients (nuts of all kinds, raisins, cherries, etc...) and different flavors (vanilla, chocolate, maple, lemon, mint, etc...), but the basis always stays the same: cream or milk/condensed milk, sugar and butter.

This "Chocolate Walnut Fudge" recipe (source: www.thatsmyhome.com) that I am presenting is made in the old-fashioned way and is kind of traditional. It is simple to make, but has a great gustatory effect on those who have a bite of it! The walnuts add a "Brownie" taste to this chocolate "Fudge" and offer a punchy alternative to this candy. A delicious and dreamy journey back to our innocent and cherished childhood...